Martin M. Sacks Memorial Fund Grant

The Martin M. Sacks Memorial Fund Grant is administered by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, a regional community foundation dedicated to strengthening nonprofit organizations and improving quality of life across central Pennsylvania. Established in 1984 in memory of Martin M. Sacks, a respected accountant and avid handball enthusiast, the fund reflects his commitment to supporting disadvantaged and underserved populations, particularly children and youth. The foundation manages a variety of charitable funds and initiatives and serves as a trusted philanthropic partner for donors and nonprofits throughout the region. The primary purpose of this grant program is to support nonprofit organizations that provide youth and family oriented programs and services aligned with their organizational mission. The fund prioritizes innovative and impactful projects that directly benefit at risk children, youth, and their families. Eligible activities span a wide range of services, including but not limited to homelessness support for women and children, therapeutic counseling, domestic violence services, support groups, behavioral and physical health services, recreational and after school programs, and services for youth with special needs. Projects must demonstrate originality, avoid duplication of existing services, and include measurable and achievable outcomes. Funding is offered in amounts up to 1000 dollars per award. While the grant size is modest, applicants are expected to demonstrate responsible financial planning, including diversified funding sources rather than sole reliance on this grant. Budget proposals must clearly outline how funds will be used. The program does not support certain activities, including capital campaigns, lobbying efforts, retroactive funding, religious programming for sectarian purposes, or funding for individuals. New staff positions must include a sustainability plan, and organizations without a demonstrated local presence are not eligible. Eligibility is limited to established nonprofit organizations with 501c3 status that serve residents within Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Counties in south central Pennsylvania. Preference is given to programs located in or directly serving Harrisburg and surrounding communities. Applicants must demonstrate a clear connection to the fund’s mission, articulate the need and target population, and describe program activities in detail. Collaborative efforts, defined roles and responsibilities, and inclusive practices that reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion are strongly encouraged and evaluated as part of the review process. Applications must be submitted online through the foundation’s system. The application period opens on June 1, 2026 and closes on September 1, 2026. Applicants may request a draft review of their proposal up to two weeks prior to the deadline by contacting the Community Investment Team. Required application components include a narrative description of the project, defined goals and measurable outcomes, a detailed budget worksheet, and supporting documentation that demonstrates organizational capacity and community impact. Proposals are evaluated by a grant review committee using a structured scoring system totaling 50 points. Criteria include alignment with the fund’s mission, clarity of need and proposed activities, strength of partnerships, financial planning, measurable outcomes, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by December 1, 2026. Funded projects must be implemented within the grant year running from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2027. Questions and support are available through the Community Investment Team via email or phone, and applicants are encouraged to reach out throughout the process for guidance.

Ensure strong alignment with mission clearly define measurable outcomes demonstrate collaboration and avoid duplication of services